Liverpool legends stage Dublin game in aid of Sean Cox

Liverpool players celebrated with a Sean Cox banner after their Champions League semi-final victory over Roma

Liverpool are to host a special legends game at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin in April in aid of the Sean Cox appeal.

A squad of former Reds will line up against an Ireland XI, with proceeds raised from the match donated to the Sean Cox Rehabilitation Trust.

Cox was left with brain injuries after he was the victim of an unprovoked attack outside Anfield ahead of Liverpool's Champions League semi-final first leg with Roma last April.

Sean's wife Martina Cox said: "Sean has been supporting Liverpool all of his life and to have this match in Dublin in his name will be a special day.

"It's going to be a very long and slow process for Sean's recovery and I'd like to thank the overwhelming support Liverpool fans have shown."

Liverpool CEO Peter Moore said: "We're all behind Sean and his family. We hope this unique legends game in Ireland's capital will be a huge success and help generate vital funds to support Sean's rehabilitation.

Edin Dzeko and his Roma team-mates trained wearing t-shirts with the message 'Forza Sean' ahead of the second leg

"The solidarity shown from supporters throughout the world for Sean is incredible and we thank everyone for their continued support, including the Football Association of Ireland and its CEO, John Delaney, in helping to arrange this game."

Stephen Felle, chairman of the Sean Cox Rehabilitation Trust, added: "As well as being a fantastic event in honour of Sean Cox, it will be a special opportunity for Irish Liverpool fans, and Irish sports fans generally, to see a myriad of legends play in the Aviva Stadium.

"To coincide with the visit of LFC to Dublin, we are also planning a gala dinner in aid of the SupportSean campaign in Dublin on the evening prior to the match."